Living a positively purposeful life by beginning within yourself.

First Friday Find: _stevenwilson

It just so happens that _stevenwilson is my brother. Well, technically speaking, it is my brother’s Instagram account. Perhaps you’re wondering why my brother qualifies as a First Friday Find? I didn’t just find my brother nor did I recently stubble upon his Instagram account. He and I go back to my birth and I’ve been following his Instagram account since it’s inception a little over six months ago. However, what I found recently, in regards to _stevenwilson, is that his work is moving beyond a hobby and becoming a true talent that has the potential to make a difference. Nepotism aside, I would be doing my readers an injustice if I didn’t share his talent here. And, if you’re not on Instagram, have no fear! You can access his wave art on-line through Enjoygram.

His Instagram account is centered almost entirely around the shots he grabs of waves in the Pacific Ocean using his GoPro HERO4 BLACK. It’s been incredible to watch the progression of his work become something truly spectacular. As a result, he’s had requests for copies of his prints and various people asking to feature his work. Recently, he partnered up with Coastal Playground. Coastal Playground has a 50/50 program where 50% of the proceeds from products sold are given to organizations that work to keep beaches clean and educate the public on related issues. So, now, if you want to have one of _stevenwilson’s stellar wave shots in your home, you can order a poster or canvas and 50% of the proceeds will go to a worthy cause. I personally think it’s such a beautiful thing when people utilize their talents to better the world around them, so you can imagine how proud I am of my brother.

Another thing that’s evolved, since _stevenwilson began this new venture, is an Instagram account that embraces all the imperfections. As we know, not all artwork is a slam dunk. Movies have outtakes, literature has drafts, and music has cuts. Photography is no different. A few wave photography buddies, including _stevenwilson, have started an account called bottombarrelcrew. Bottom Barrel Crew gives you a glimpse of the behind the scenes world of wave photography. Plus, you get to learn a little bit more about the players in the local scene for Southern California.

I’m so happy that my brother has found his passion. He always enjoyed being out in the ocean, but turning it into something more than a personal experience has been awesome to witness. It reminds me of the quote by William Shakespeare, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” Thanks for sharing your gift with the rest of us, _stevenwilson. I’m sure our Mom is so proud, as we all are, of you.